r/Explainlikeimscared 9d ago

How to book dentist appt. For severe cavities?

69 Upvotes

I have had depression for almost a decade and it has severely impacted my ability to take care of myself--mainly, dental hygiene.

I have atleast 3 big cavities I can see that have been in my mouth since last September, and probably way more. The last time I went to the dentist (a few years ago) they mocked how bad my teeth looked, asking if I need them to xome to my house and brush my teeth for me because clearly I'm not doing it. I was so young I didnt say anything, and just stopped going.

How do I tell the dentist how bad my teeth are? And in a way so they wont judge me like my last dentists did? Do I just call and say i need an appt to take care of a ton of cavities? Im really ashamed of how my teeth are right now and I know the longer I wait the worse it'll get, but im so scared.


r/Explainlikeimscared 8d ago

How to properly call out of work?

13 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I was scheduled to work Wednesday but was asked to cover someone’s shift on Thursday as well (I said yes). However, I found out that I have orientation for school on those two days and now I’m worried about how to call in to work. For context, I work at a SNF as a CNA but I only have 7 sick hours (I would be missing 24 hours of work). How can I properly call off? Do I call the day prior or do I call soon since I’m already aware of the conflicting schedule? Last time I called off a night prior, I was taken off the schedule completely the following month. Hoping I don’t get this issue again with this new manager. TIA!!


r/Explainlikeimscared 10d ago

Having anxiety over thinks unlikely to happen

35 Upvotes

How can I teach myself to not be afraid of something that statistically has an extremely low chance of happening?


r/Explainlikeimscared 11d ago

How do I figure out when I started my meds?

23 Upvotes

I'm in the process of trying to get on disability payments (i live in the US) and so I've been going through my medical history and trying to put dates and provider names to certain things. I finally got a list figured out of my diagnoses, who diagnosed them, and the year, and now my next hurdle is doing the same with my meds. I'm on a lot of different medications that have changed throughout the years, and I have a REALLY bad memory so I have no clue when I started what. How do I figure this out? I've moved a few times, different meds are from different providers, so i don't know who to ask. Do I ask my current psychiatrist? Would she have that information? Any help to figure this out would be super helpful 😭


r/Explainlikeimscared 11d ago

How do I quit my job

27 Upvotes

I live in a state where I can just quit, I don’t need to give two weeks notice. I have a lot of good reasons to quit this job, and I have another one that I really like so I won’t be fully unemployed. I can also afford to live on just the job that I like. The only pros of this job are that more money is nice, it’s a really short commute, and I like some of my coworkers. I’m just an entry level weekend laborer and this company is poorly staffed with or without me there.

Do I call the location phone and leave a voicemail?

Do I email instead so that there’s documentation, even though that means they probably won’t see it today(I have a shift today)?

My resume is pretty strong otherwise(for my age) and I have only worked there for like a month, but will this negatively impact my career long term? Since it’s been such a short amount of time, I wasn’t planning to put it on my resume at all.

Giving two weeks notice is polite even when it’s not required, does that matter if I’m not going to put them as a reference or talk to anyone from there again?

I’ve never quit a job before, does doing it suddenly on a day when I have a shift make me a bad person?

Edit: I called and emailed to quit and the world has not ended😬


r/Explainlikeimscared 12d ago

How to pickup a food order?

17 Upvotes

So let’s say I order food via a pickup order with the Uber Eats app. It gives me a number, they tell me the restaurant finished making it, etc etc. When I go to the store, do I just walk in and grab the corresponding order? I’ve seen some stores where they have a shelf for such orders/delivery drivers - do I just simply take it? Or should I show the pickup order from the Uber Eats app to the cashier before picking it up (assuming theirs no dedicated shelf/place)?


r/Explainlikeimscared 12d ago

Fire stations

117 Upvotes

I recently changed my route to walk back home. I live on the block next to the fire station. That route requires me to walk in front of the fire station. The shutters are open most of the time. Sometimes I see someone from the fire station sitting on a chair outside, and sometimes there is nobody.

Yesterday, when I was walking on the sidewalk in front of them, I noticed the shutters were open, and the fire truck was whirring. I stopped so as not to stand in front of any shutters, and decided not to cross them. It looked like they would be out any second. Lo and behold, the truck pulled out 2 seconds later, I’m standing like this 🧍🏻‍♀️and did a little nod when the truck came out and then their sirens turned on when they got on the road.

Is what I did correct? Do I need to remember or watch out for anything when I’m walking in front of the first station?


r/Explainlikeimscared 12d ago

Root canal

12 Upvotes

I have a molar that needs a root canal. Got a second opinion months ago, the doctor cleaned it and filled it.
Had a tooth cleaning today and felt that sharp pain near that tooth. After an x ray the doctor told me I need a root canal.

I’m horribly scared of getting one. I know I get an injection before, but what if it doesn’t numb the tooth 100%? I am so scared of feeling that pain again.


r/Explainlikeimscared 13d ago

Haircut

5 Upvotes

So I got my haircut last Thursday and don't know how to style it. It's a wolfcut but I have wavy/curly hair so it's a bit longer. I have been thinking about calling to ask about how to style it because my hair gets too poofy and doesn't look right. It's been a week, and I feel like I've waited to long to call and ask what products they used and how to style it. I also hate calling to places because i might not know what to say in that moment, or i might sound stupid .

What should I say?


r/Explainlikeimscared 13d ago

What should I wear to a black metal concert?

22 Upvotes

I’m going to my first post black metal gig in November (Harakiri For the Sky and Sunken, if that helps). I do have a HFtS band t-shirt but idk if it’s considered uncool to wear the t-shirt of the band you’re seeing? Otherwise, what do I wear?

And what should I expect? Despite loving metal, it’ll be my first time at any kind of metal gig, in part due to social anxiety and autism. It seems that black metal shows don’t usually have any/ much moshing? In which case I guess it’ll be more of a gentle introduction. I’m also a woman and worried that I’ll be one of about 4 women in the venue. What are some other dos/ don’ts at the gig?


r/Explainlikeimscared 13d ago

How to give a tip?

10 Upvotes

I'm European and I'm going to Canada soon. People have proper wages here so we only tip here when service is exceptional and only at a sit-down restaurant pretty much. What I usually do is pay my bill by card and then discreetly leave some cash on the table as a tip.

I don't want to be rude so I'd like to tip properly when in Canada and I really don't want to be awkward. Please someone tell me if I'm okay tipping exclusively by card or should I bring cash? How much is expected where and in what form? Do you tell the person "and this is for you" and hand them an extra dollar when ordering a beer? Stuff like that. Maybe give me examples step by step on what you do?


r/Explainlikeimscared 14d ago

I'm scared and I don't know why

94 Upvotes

Hi everyone I have no clue what this subreddit is for but it say has explain in its title so I'll take it but these past few days I've been scared to death especially at night to the point where I can't sleep alone and I've had to call someone over just for them to be neer me I've also been wanting to cry because of the fear but I can't it's annoying. I'm currently on vacation and I had the funniest day with my family but when I enter the bathroom to get ready for bed I get this fog in my mind that fills me with fear. The only explanation I have is that I saw a horror video recently but not only was I not scared when I saw it but I don't get scared by horror things usually and I'm just here to ask reddit for help I really want to go back to being normal and not having these moments which I can only describe as a mix of panic attacks, fear and numbness in my head. So just if anyone has an explanation or tips for me I'd really appreciate it.


r/Explainlikeimscared 14d ago

How do I let my bank know I'm about to spend a lot of money at the vet tomorrow.

58 Upvotes

My cat is going to have surgery tomorrow and it's going to be a lot of money so I'm wondering how should I explain it to the bank. I believe it would get flagged if I don't because it's not something I typically spend. So I was just wondering how should I go in to the bank and explain it


r/Explainlikeimscared 14d ago

What happens at the first session for talk therapy?

25 Upvotes

In detail please. I had a 15m consultation call and almost cried ON THE CALL from anxiety. She said the first meeting will be to "learn a lot about me" but when I get really scared I struggle to talk so what will happen then?


r/Explainlikeimscared 14d ago

Im nervous about taking pills

15 Upvotes

So, I have a few pills my doctor perscribed to me, not looking for medical advice on those or anything after all hes the one that went to med school he knows best, Im just nervous to take any kind of pills in general let that be vitamins, meds, diet supplements etc. How do I deal with this?


r/Explainlikeimscared 15d ago

how to move into college

16 Upvotes

I move into college tomorrow and I’m absolutely terrified. I’m going to miss my parents and my boyfriend, we’re going to be 500 miles apart. I’m so anxious and stressed I haven’t been able to sleep. I live in a large metropolitan city and now I’m moving into the middle of nowhere where I don’t know anyone. I’m going to share a room with two other girls and I love having my own personal space and me time. On top of that I have bad misophonia so I imagine dorms will be my own personal hell. Help?


r/Explainlikeimscared 15d ago

How to go to a barbershop

136 Upvotes

I'm a trans man who has been out for six years, and still have yet to go to a barber shop. The women at Great Clips just don't get that I'm trying to look masc and this last time they ended up making my hair look horrible and feminine. I'm not on hormones, but I do look masculine presenting.

I live in Indiana, and there's a barbershop next to a bunch of LGBTQIA+ friendly businesses, and they say they're inclusive and do cuts for kids with Autism. I really want to go here but I have no idea the etiquette or anything. I've never stepped foot in a barbershop.

I'm scared they're gonna say they only cut mens hair and I'll have to explain myself. But all I want is a shave round the back and sides. Do they have counters that a guy will stand at waiting for people? Its walk-in only. Do they talk a lot? Or is that like a per person thing?

Please help, and I'm sorry if thats too much context.


r/Explainlikeimscared 15d ago

How can I get my adult cats pet insurance and a primary vet?

10 Upvotes

exactly as it says. when i was a teen, my dad took them to get regular check ups, and one of them had a broken leg that needed surgery too. they got their vaccines and got fixed.

but now im moved out, and its been years since ive taken them to the vet and i need to get pet insurance first, but im struggling to figure out what the best options are and how it works. it doesnt cover preexisting conditions right? so how would that work, should i expect to pay a lot of money out of pocket in the near future for any treatments they may need upon initial evaluation?

i also need advice on how to schedule an initial vet visit for adult cats and what i should expect. im sure I'll need to bring their vaccine records, but should i bring anything else?

and finally, one of the biggest reasons preventing me from doing this sooner is that one of my cats, Bandit, has always been pretty anxious overall but carriers and car rides especially scare him, to the point that everytime i put him in a carrier, he pisses, shits, and sometimes throws up on himself in a matter of minutes. and then having to bathe him just freaks him out more :[ hearing the way he howled constantly and seeing him shaking and covered in his own shit last time i moved broke my damn heart....

ive tried different kinds of carriers, both hard and soft ones, and ive tried using some anxiety calming treats but none of the things ive tried have really worked. ive heard you can get a mild sedative or muscle relaxant to help with this but im not sure what to look for if it this is something that needs to be prescribed by a vet beforehand

any and all help is appreciated!!


r/Explainlikeimscared 14d ago

cart+ariana at the o2??

0 Upvotes

will i be able to get my cart into the o2 in london kinda looks a normal disposable im jw cuz idk if i should


r/Explainlikeimscared 16d ago

ELIS: How Do I Talk With My Doctor About Getting ADHD Medication/Treatment?

4 Upvotes

I received an ADHD diagnosis back in 2022 with the intention of seeking treatment in order to help me in college at the time, but never followed up due to multiple life circumstances/other untreated mental issues. Now that I've done extensive therapy and am going back to college (and because my symptoms still interfere with daily life), I wanted to try and speak with my doctor about possibly getting on ADHD medication. I know she cannot prescribe Adderall, I haven't spoken with her about ADHD in the past, and I know the visit will probably only take five or so minutes (after an hour long wait). Will I need to bring my paperwork showing diagnosis? Discuss my symptoms with her? Talk about other treatment options (if there are any???)? Do I just make an appointment saying I wanted to speak with her about possible ADHD and getting treatment for it??? Thank you so much!


r/Explainlikeimscared 16d ago

How do I make a Sunday-night checklist so getting to work Monday feels less overwhelming?

24 Upvotes

I'm looking for a literal, practical sequence rather than reassurance or medical advice. If someone is prone to Sunday scaries, what should they do—in order—to prepare for Monday without spending the whole evening preparing?

For example: choose clothes, pack a bag, check the route or schedule, write down the first task, set an alarm, then stop. What belongs on the checklist, how long should each step take, and what should be left for Monday? A broadly useful version for ordinary workdays would be ideal.


r/Explainlikeimscared 16d ago

Gas Oven??

17 Upvotes

Moved into a new apartment with a gas oven/range. I have been using the stove for weeks without issue but the oven!! The first time I turned it on, it smelled very strongly like gas so I turned it off. Internet said that’s supposedly normal for a minute while it heats up, but obviously the internet is not in my kitchen making a judgement call. Boyfriend used the oven to make pizza while I was out a couple of weeks ago and says the smell went away after a little bit (clearly, the house didn’t burn down so I guess it’s fine).

So I guess the question is, how safe is a gas oven really? And how do I make the distinction between normal gas oven smell and an actual problem?


r/Explainlikeimscared 16d ago

How do I find a youth shelter or similar support? (UK)

11 Upvotes

Hi, I was assaulted in my hone today and it has been made abundantly clear that I don't have any protection. I'm 19 and and from the west Midlands in England if that helps.


r/Explainlikeimscared 16d ago

How can I find a mentor?

0 Upvotes

Hello.

I saw a similar question, but I couldn’t find any helpful information among the comments.

What I am not looking for: a life coach, a friend, a sexual or romantic relationship. Suggestions to seek a doctor or therapy. Please, focus on what I asked.

What I am looking for: a mentor

I am smart. Really. I’m not bragging, I’m trying to get my point across. That’s what I’ve been known for my whole life and now I even got an official IQ test to prove it (I had to take the test to get my adhd diagnosis). But I won’t do anything with my life unless I get some help or guidance urgently.

I am not a maker. I don’t have focus. I need someone I look up to, someone great, stern but also kind. How can I find this person? How can I ask them to mentor me? Why would they bother with me?

The person I’d like to be my mentor (Alex Horne) is completely outside of my reach.


r/Explainlikeimscared 17d ago

Tips for improving communication?

12 Upvotes

Hi all,

I’m 21, currently in college, and from a young age I have always been known as a fairly nervous/anxious person in general - something that have been said by family, friends, and teachers over the years.

There are certain ‘flaws’ that I have noticed with myself, but more so in certain aspects of my communication. I don’t want this to impact a future career, so I want to try to improve this while in college, and while there is the opportunity to do so.

I have no issue with speaking in front of an audience. I have done so for different modules in college, and usually am commended for my speeches through delivery style & engagement. But, this is because I have what I’m going to say memorised, so I know word for word, what exactly I’m going to say, how I’m going to say it, etc. This is also clearly reflected through my written communication.

However, when it comes to social interactions, I do notice there is a big dip in my communication. For instance, if I know I have to go up and talk to someone that I’m not familiar with (conversation, interview, ringing someone), I’ll then nearly have to have what I’m going to say memorised word-for-word as though a script.

There’ll then be other little moments where if I’m talking with someone unfamiliar, I may, sometimes, go a bit shaky / mumbly, and this would apply to if I was taking phone calls, etc.

This particular incoherence would also occur if I'm put on the spot, i.e asked a question, where my voice would go a bit shaky, I'd go mumbly, and my face would go a red.

I really do want to improve on this as I do know in any future career that day-to-day communication whether it be structured or spontaneous is much more important than being able to speak in-front of an audience.

To that extent, would anyone have any advice as to what I should do? Would it be recommended I go to a person who can help with the general nerves / anxiety, or would this be more a matter of knuckling these issues with a public speaking coach?

Many thanks